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プログラムのゴール (Program Goals)

This internship program aims to provide JPN students with professional on-the-job training that requires the use of Japanese and English. With the generous support of host companies, students are expected to accomplish the following goals:

  1. Gain an understanding of workplace dynamics, professional expectations, and the influence of culture on both.

  2. Build proficiency in a range of skills appropriate to the Japanese workplace, including professional and cross-cultural communication through written, verbal, and nonverbal means.

  3. Develop professional connections and identify a strategy for maintaining those connections, and

  4. Become a critical observer and appraiser of the Japanese culture and society.

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プログラムの構成
(Program Structure)

Internship – various locations in Japan

  • The internship will take place in July & August for 5 to 6 weeks.

  • Job placement will be based on your preferences/skills and host companies’ needs.

  • Expected hours of work: approx. 25 hours per week.

  • You will work with a supervisor and assist each company’s programs and operations.

 

JPN 493 Project Work in Japanese (3 cr.) 

  • All internship participants must enroll in and complete this course.​

  • This preparatory course covers professional communication and manner, Japanese work culture, and project-based activities.

  • This course will be offered online (synchronous and asynchronous) in Summer I (5/27-7/3)

参加の条件 (Eligibility Criteria)

This program is made possible with the support of host companies in Japan, who volunteered to provide the training opportunity for our students. We are seeking enthusiastic and capable students with the specific qualities as laid out below.   

  1. Have successfully completed JPN 301 or above and possess at least intermediate-level Japanese competency (i.e., can conduct a daily conversation in Japanese)

  2. 3.0 or above GPA

  3. Have a good command of oral communication in English and Japanese and are eager to interact with people

  4. Be able to complete assigned tasks and other work responsibilities in a professional and responsible manner

  5. Have a clear sense of purpose and a passion for this internship program!

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申し込み
(Application)

A complete application package should be submitted by Saturday, February 15, 2025

  1. Cover letter (explaining your qualifications, reasons, and goals for participating in this program: 1-2 pages)

  2. 500-character self-introduction narrative in Japanese (this should be addressed to host companies)

  3. Up-to-date curriculum vitae (include all relevant professional experiences)

  4. Unofficial transcript 

  5. One letter of recommendation from your JPN teacher (send directly to atsushih@hawaii.edu)

  6. Submit the above documents and fill out the application form here.

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選考の流れ (Screening Timeline)

  • Students apply: Jan-Feb 2025

  • Screening and matching based on application materials: Feb 2025 

  • Zoom interview(s) with the host companies: Mar 2025

  • If the company’s needs and your needs match, proceed with the official course registration – April 2025

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*We try to take into consideration students' preferences in the matching process. However, please be flexible even if your preferences are not met.

プログラムの費用
(Program Costs)

  • Tuition and Fees ≈ $1,900

  • Airfare between Hawaii and Japan ≈ $1,200

  • Travel insurance ($1.38 per day) ≈ $57.96

  • Accommodation during the program will be provided by host companies (with a possible fee of up to around $500). This may include homestays, hotels, dorms, or apartments, depending on the sites.

  • Students are generally responsible for meals and local transportation (*While some hosts may cover these items, that is not expected nor required of them).

©2025 by UHM Summer Internship in Japan Committee

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